Bowie State Celebrates 160 Years of Excellence at Founders’ Day

Tiffany "Lady T" Watson Inspires with Powerful Message of Persistence

MEDIA CONTACT: media@bowiestate.edu

(BOWIE, Md.)-Bowie State University commemorated 160 years of academic excellence, legacy and leadership during its annual Founders' Day celebration, honoring generations of alumni, students, faculty and staff who continue to uphold the bold and resilient spirit of Maryland's oldest historically Black university.

This year's keynote speaker, Tiffany "Lady T" Watson, a two-time Emmy-nominated television host and proud Bowie State alumna, returned to her roots to share a message of determination, authenticity and unwavering persistence. Best known for her role on FOX45's "BMORE Lifestyle" and her popular segments "Spilling the Tea w/ Lady T" and "Lemme Tell You," Watson captivated the audience with stories of her journey from student to celebrated media personality.

"Persistence will take you places that talent alone won't," Watson shared during her speech. "In the classroom, in your career and in every room you walk into, let your hard work speak louder than your doubt." Her empowering message resonated deeply with attendees, many of whom expressed pride in seeing a fellow Bulldog thriving and giving back.

Watson, who earned her bachelor's degree in communications from Bowie State and a master's in new media journalism from Full Sail University, also touched on the importance of staying grounded and connected. "Being Bowie Bold means carrying this legacy with you in how you move, how you lead, and how you lift others," she said.

The event served as a powerful reminder of the university's enduring mission and the extraordinary individuals who have helped shape its rich history. With every Founders' Day celebration, Bowie State not only honors its past but also inspires its community to push forward with purpose, pride and persistence.

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About Bowie State University
Founded in 1865, Bowie State University is the first Historically Black College/University (HBCU) in Maryland and one of the ten oldest in the country. Bowie State has earned the 'Research College and University' designation in the 2025 Carnegie Research Activity Classification. As a leading institution of higher learning, Bowie State offers more than 65 bachelor's, master's, doctoral and certificate programs across arts and sciences, technology, business, education, healthcare and related disciplines. The university provides high-quality and affordable educational opportunities in a supportive environment that empowers students to think critically, make new discoveries, value differences and emerge as leaders in a highly technical, rapidly changing global society. For more information about Bowie State University, visit bowiestate.edu.